The Facilities Management sector has grown significantly over the past 20 years, but brand awareness amongst the public is limited. Many people are not aware of what the companies do, and the value that they bring to day-to-day life. There are probably a number of reasons for this and I have focussed on two that I consider to be key below.
Does the sector have a clear identity?
By that I mean, is there a clearly defined brand purpose and proposition which is consistently communicated? From my perspective, I think that the messages that we send out are often muddled, both in terms of what we do, but also the value we deliver. There are often overlaps of FM with property, IT, HR and then there is the question of single services (eg cleaning) versus facilities management versus total outsourcing. Is there any wonder that many of the general public are confused about what facilities management really is?
I believe that clearer and more consistent communications would contribute to brand awareness, and the esteem in which the profession is held.
Why are Facilities Management companies reluctant to shout about their successes and the great things they do?
During my last 8 years in this sector I have heard about great programmes that have created value in the workplace, and made a positive impact on people’s daily lives, but very rarely are these communicated outside of the industry or the specific company. Examples include:
• Smart workplace programmes which maximise the quality of the working environment, so employees can work productively, whilst ensuring the workplace is used efficiently.
• Innovative food offers which provide healthy food in corporate offices whenever it is required, contributing to employee’s health and wellness.
• Year on year energy savings which remove waste, and ensure a pleasant working environment is coupled with an efficient one.
• Novel cleaning methods that reduce chemical and water usage whilst maintaining effectiveness, to minimise environmental impact.
I believe that if more companies communicate the great things that they are doing it should increase public awareness of the facilities manager’s role, as well as encouraging more young people to select it as their career of choice. I would welcome your thoughts.
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